Did you know that your dog’s lymph nodes play an integral role in his or her immune system? Fortunately, examining them is easier than you might think. In this episode of Pet Talk, Dr. Sarah’s joined by her lovable cohort, Alma, to show you exactly where canine lymph nodes are located so you can do a quick exam in your own home. Our good doctor reviews the normal sizes of these paired nodes, and how to know whether or not they’re inflamed. And, you’ll hear about common causes of inflammation, too. Most importantly, Dr. Sarah recommends that you make this check-up part of your monthly routine, to track possible changes in your dog’s health. This episode is jam-packed with information, so be sure to share it with your friends and family!

Second only to upper-respiratory illness, digestive disorders are the chief reason for feline veterinary visits. Cats with digestive problems exhibit symptoms ranging from vomiting and diarrhea, to weight loss, constipation and excessive gas. While the causes are many, feline IBS and IBD are two common digestive disorders. On many occasions, they are mistaken for one another, which is unfortunate because they call for very different treatments. In this post, we’ll cover the basics and try to clear up the confusion surrounding these disorders.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome, or IBS, also affects humans. For us, symptoms of this disorder include lower abdominal pain, excessive gas and a marked change in stools, among others. All of these need not occur simultaneously, although they sometimes do. Causes range from suffering from excessive stress, taking a newly prescribed medication and the development of dietary sensitivities. In response, the intestinal tract repeatedly and painfully contracts, like a spasming muscle, leading to stool changes. If you or anyone you know has endured these symptoms, you’ll know that IBS is no walk in the park. More...

This month, it is our great pleasure to announce another Dr. Jane’s HealthyPetNet Foundation financial award, given to Marion Regional Humane Society of Marion, IL. A non-profit, no-kill organization, this tight-knit group works closely with the public to achieve their twin goals of reducing pet overpopulation and matching up abandoned animals with new homes. In a profession that leaves some rescuers cynical about the cruelty of some people towards non-human animals, these folks do their good works with gentle caring, unflagging perseverance and good humor.

As we have seen many times in previous foundation-related blog postings, some rescue organizations take as their mission the saving of specific breeds of dogs. Other non-profits cater their knowledgeable care solely to cats. And then there are those organizations like Marion Regional Humane Society, who seemingly take their inspiration from that ark of old, opening their hearts and doors to animals of all stripes, including dogs, cats, birds, rabbits, hamsters and more.

Frankie

Over the years, Marion Regional has operated a spay-and-neuter program, offered veterinary medical aid, provided food and shelter, and – above all – improved the chances that abandoned animals will become united with loving forever homes. More...